Symptoms

Symptoms ofPregnancy-Related Depression

Most of us feel sad, blue, unhappy, or down in the dumps sometimes. Clinical depression, though, is a medical condition that occurs when feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with everyday life.

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Some people describe it as a continuous feeling of hopelessness. Others say it's like a dark cloud that surrounds them and separates them from others. Some women say they have fatigue that makes even the smallest task seem overwhelming and impossible.

Pregnancy-related depression can happen during pregnancy or within a year after delivering a baby. The good news is that depression can be treated and you can be happy again.

Look for these signs:

Symptoms of pregnancy-related depression may include:

Feeling restless and irritable

Feeling sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed

Crying a lot

Having no energy or motivation

Eating too little or too much

Sleeping too little or too much

Trouble focusing, remembering, and making decisions

Feeling worthless or guilty

Decreased interest or pleasure in activities

Withdrawal from friends and family

Loss of interest in bathing, fixing hair, getting dressed

Having headaches, chest pains, or a racing heart

After pregnancy, signs of depression may also include being afraid of hurting your baby or yourself, or not having any interest in your baby.

Seek help from your health care provider if any of these symptoms last for more than two weeks.